2006 Honda Civic Sport CDTi review from UK and Ireland

No faults, as you would expect from a Honda.

Fabulous car. Replaced a Focus 1.8 TDCi Zetec which I was well pleased with, but this is a step on in every way.

The most impressive aspect is the engine. It's the smoothest, quietest four cylinder diesel engine I've ever experienced, and makes rivals from Ford, VW and Vauxhall (all of which I tried) feel agricultural. It pulls from nothing, revs keenly (for a diesel) and is returning 47 mpg average so far.

The dash design is gorgeous with a big central blue backlit rev counter flanked by smaller fuel and temperature gauges, and a central blue LCD speedometer in a separate pod above. Minor controls are grouped in circular "pods" around the main cluster, and the effect is both futuristic and striking. Unlike most cars which have interiors trying to copy the rather bland designs of German cars, Honda have designed something radical, yet ergonomically excellent. Assembly quality and materials are beyond reasonable criticism.

Handling is very good. It lacks that final n'th of involvement and feel of my old mk1 Focus with lighter steering and slightly overassisted brakes. However, the dual wishbone suspension gives precise handling, and grip levels are strong.

I tried a VW Golf TDI, a Focus TDCi 136 and an Astra CDTi and this stood out just for being different, yet as well if not better put together than any of its rivals. Shutlines are tight and even, trim fits perfectly, and there's a sense of almost surgical precision about the way the car is assembled that even the mk5 Golf can't match.

Well pleased with my choice.